Speak with an authorised celebrant
Your celebrant explains the marriage requirements and checks your circumstances before the ceremony. You do not have to be an Australian citizen or permanent resident to marry in Australia.
Both people must freely agree to marry and meet the legal eligibility requirements. Raise any questions about age, an existing marriage or documentation with your celebrant early.
Give the required notice
Your authorised celebrant guides you through the legal requirements. Give them your Notice of Intended Marriage at least one month and no more than 18 months before the ceremony. A shorter notice period needs approval; speak with your celebrant before making short-notice plans.
Prepare your documents
Your celebrant needs evidence of your date and place of birth, identity and, where relevant, the end of a previous marriage. They will explain acceptable documents and any translation requirements.
The Notice of Intended Marriage can be witnessed in person or by audio-visual link where the legal requirements are met. Your celebrant must separately meet each of you in person before solemnising the marriage.
Arrange the ceremony
The couple, authorised celebrant and two adult witnesses must be physically present. Your celebrant guides you through the required words and signatures.
Personal vows, readings and music can be included alongside the legal requirements. A legals-only ceremony keeps the focus on the required elements.
Apply for the official certificate
Your celebrant submits the paperwork to the relevant state or territory registry within 14 days. The certificate given to you on the day is ceremonial; apply for an official registry certificate when you need to prove the marriage or change your name.
What to do after your wedding · Marriage paperwork checklist